Moroccan chillies benefit from proximity as shipping pressures mount for competitors
Morocco’s proximity to the UK is becoming an important advantage in the fresh chilli trade, as shipping disruption linked to the Red Sea crisis raises costs and threatens the quality of perishable produce from more remote origins like Kenya.
For UK-based importer Commexpo, Morocco is the key source, particularly during winter, when supplies from Spain and other European growing regions typically face seasonal and weather-related challenges.
“In winter, the UK is very reliant on Spain and Morocco,” said the company’s managing director, Nitin Trehan. “We have a partner in Agadir, Morocco, where we grow and also supply seeds to other farmers.”
Its chilli range includes around ten varieties, from the mild to the not-so-mild. “We grow the main ones: Freshno, Habanero and green chillies,” he revealed, “and the rest we buy from the market or contract with farmers.”
For Moroccan chillies, he said, the UK remains a significant market, while demand is also increasing in continental Europe, as the appeal of fresh chillies grows across a range of cuisines.
Efficient logistics remains key to serving the market, according to Trehan. He estimates transit from Agadir at around five days, compared with approximately three days from Spain and 10-12 days for produce shipped from Egypt. The shorter route helps to guarantee freshness and reduce exposure to the higher freight costs and longer journeys currently afflicting supply chains.
